Kear’s pride as Batley are top part time side

Andrew Hunt

Departing Batley coach John Kear was left brimming with pride last Sunday as his side were crowned the best part time side in the country.

The Bulldogs finished seventh in the Middle Eights stage of the competition, having claimed a top four spot in the regular Championship campaign.

Kear will join Wakefield Trinity on November 1 but admits Batley will always have a special place in his heart.

Kear said: “I’m really pleased with what the players have contributed and done over the full season.

“We are the best part time team in this country over a full season and I can take great pride in that and I’m sure the players will take great pride in that.

“We wanted to be the best part time team in this game and over the course of 30 regular season games and three cup games, we have proved that.

“I’m certain that should Batley get into the top four again next season, and I certainly hope they do, they will make a better fist of it.

“It has been a dream of a season and a fantastic way to go out.”

Kear and the Bulldogs team left the Mount Pleasant pitch to a standing ovation following last Sunday’s 42-14 defeat to Salford Red Devils, who now look to preserve their Super League status with a trip to Hull KR in the Million Pound Game on Saturday.

Kear was delighted with his side’s effort against Salford, adding: “One of the statements we made at half-time was to win the second half and we did that, I was really pleased when O’Brien missed the last goal.

“It was gritty, determined, enthusiastic and hard working but Salford had the quality and you have got to give them credit. They came here focused and intent and stuck to their game plan.”